Pumpkins can be cut into small pieces and buried beneath leaf mulch in planters. Due to their high-water content, pumpkins will decompose relatively quickly and contribute organic matter back into the soil. Remove the seeds before composting to avoid growing an unwanted pumpkin patch in this location next year.
The raw seeds can be gathered and roasted for human consumption, or incorporated into feed for birds and other wildlife. Squirrels, deer and other animals will appreciate the meat of the pumpkin as food becomes scarce elsewhere. Farms and zoos will sometimes accept pumpkins from homeowners to feed to their animals as well. (Cynthia Domenghini)